Khadijah’s Support During the Prophethood
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) received prophethood in 610 CE, at a time when religious tolerance was virtually absent. When he declared his mission, he faced severe opposition from the polytheists of Makkah. During this challenging period, Khadijah stood by him as a true companion. She immediately believed in his prophethood and became an unwavering supporter of his mission.
One significant incident occurred after the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) received the first revelation. Feeling anxious and frightened by this extraordinary experience, he was comforted by Khadijah, who played a crucial role in reassuring him. At that time, there was a scholar in Makkah named Waraqah bin Nawfal, a relative of Khadijah, who had studied the Bible and had embraced Christianity during the pre-Islamic period.
Khadijah took the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to Waraqah. After hearing about the incident and the arrival of Gabriel, Waraqah said:
“By Him in whose hand is my soul, if what you have mentioned is true, then Muhammad has received the same great angel who came to Musa, and Muhammad is indeed the Prophet of this Ummah.” (Sirah Ibn Hisham, Vol. 1, p. 239)
After receiving prophethood, the entire focus of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) shifted towards the mission of monotheism. His involvement in trade decreased, and Khadijah assumed full responsibility for supporting him and meeting all expenses related to his mission. She dedicated all her wealth to the Prophet and his mission. This is referred to in the Quranic verse:
“Did He not find you in want, and make you free from want?” (Quran, 93:8)
At that time, idol worship was widespread in Makkah, and its people were deeply attached to polytheism. The Prophet’s call to monotheism was met with intense hostility, and people began to persecute him in various ways. They obstructed his path and even created noise outside his house. Throughout these trials, Khadijah stood by him with great patience and cheerfulness.
One day, the angel Gabriel came to the Prophet and said:
“O Messenger of God, Khadijah is coming to you carrying a vessel containing a savoury dish, some food, or a drink. When she reaches you, convey to her greetings from her Lord and from me, and give her the glad tidings of a house in Paradise made of hollowed pearl, in which there will be neither noise nor hardship.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 3820)
In the later part of the Makkan period, the leaders of the Quraysh took a serious decision against the Prophet. They unanimously drafted a document and posted it inside the Kaaba. The document prohibited the people of Makkah from engaging in trade with the Prophet and his family, or from maintaining marital or familial relations with them. This was, in effect, a social and economic boycott. As a result, the Prophet and his followers were compelled to take refuge in a narrow valley near Makkah known as Sha’ib Abi Talib.
Life in Sha’ib Abi Talib was extremely difficult. There was no comfort or adequate provision, and at times they had to survive on the roots and leaves of trees. Some compassionate people from Makkah would secretly bring food at night, but it was never sufficient.
During this period, Khadijah became severely ill. Her condition worsened, and her complexion changed. Despite this, she patiently endured these hardships. She continued to bear these difficulties until three years before the Hijrah, when she passed away in Makkah.
